Whisker-mediated transformation of embryogenic cotton suspension cultures

Abstract

Embryogenic cotton suspension cultures can be transformed by elongated, needle-like structures called “whiskers”. The process comprises the agitation of cotton suspension cultures in the presence of DNA and whiskers, whereby DNA uptake and integration thereof is facilitated.

1 . A method for transforming a cotton cell in an embryogenic cotton suspension culture which comprises: 
 inserting DNA into said cell by whisker mediated transformation.    
     
     
         2 . A method for producing a fertile transgenic plant which comprises regenerating a cell produced by the method of  claim 1 .  
     
     
         3 . A method for producing a fertile transgenic plant comprising the steps of: (i) establishing an embryogenic cotton suspension culture; (ii) transforming at least one cotton cell in said suspension culture with DNA by whisker-mediated transformation; (iv) identifying transformed cell lines therefrom; and (iv) regenerating fertile transgenic plants therefrom.  
     
     
         4 . A fertile transgenic plant produced by the method of of claim  3 .